A recent 18-wheeler case in New York resulted in a $29.4 million verdict for the family of a motorist who was killed when the overloaded container on the flatbed trailer of an 18 wheeler rig shattered sending broken pieces through the windshield of the unfortunate motorist. The accident occurred when the overloaded flatbed struck an overpass, dislodging the container which broke into pieces.
Much has been written, discussed and debated recently about tougher regulations on the amount of time 18 wheeler drivers are allowed to drive without appropriate rest and sleep time. This case illustrates yet another hazard unwitting motorists face when trucking companies are allowed to overload their trucks in order to maximize profits.
Richard J. Arsenault, 2010
